Removal of Event Data Recorder

[David73034]

I am not paranoid. Last month I read an article that insurance companies are considering requiring access to these devices when issuing policies.

I have a 2001 Crown Victoria. First I purchased a complete service manual and could find no location specified for the event data recorder.

Next, I located the service port for the diagnostic computer connection, under the dash to the upper right of the gas pedal. As you follow the wires into the dash you will notice a "Y" connection. the wires to the left go to many connections, while the wires to the right deadend in a black plastic box (4x6x2"). This is the event data recorder.

DO NOT BELIEVE ALL THE SCARE STORIES ABOUT DISCONNECTING THE AIR BAGS IF YOU REMOVE THE BOX. All that happened was the windshield wipers would not work! so, I rewired them.

In addition, I relocated the box ( which was hidden behind the ashtray near the firewall) so that I could reconnect the box if necessary. All I did was move the multiprong connection so it was next to the diagnostic connection.

It is my understanding that these event data recorders are mandated on all cars made from 2001 on.

Congress made it illegal for a dealership to disconnect or remove these devices. However, owners may still disable or remove them.

[BITTERMAN45]

sounds like to me that you disconnected the wiper govenor. that's the device that timer the intermittent wiper function. if it has a pn of 17c391.
all fords record some data as part of the processor.